Alan Shearer drops ‘Incredible’ Everton relegation verdict after Moyes debut
Alan Shearer believes Everton are set for “one incredible slog” to avoid relegation in the Premier League this season.
The Friedkin Group took proactive action in replacing Sean Dyche with David Moyes, but his Goodison Park return proved far from what was hoped as he fell to a 1-0 loss against Aston Villa (15 January).
Despite the appointment lifting the atmosphere in the blue half of Merseyside, Shearer analysed the result on The Rest is Football podcast (17 January, 16:37) and believes Everton must back Moyes in the winter transfer window in the fight against relegation.
He said: “I’d be surprised if he’s not on a promise of bringing a couple of players in, at least in January. Absolutely they need it. Because, he’s not a magician Dave, he’s a very, very good coach but he’s not a magician.
“And their performances and their lack of goals tell you all you need to know that they’re in for one incredible slog between now and the end of the season.”
Everton must improve the squad for David Moyes
While Shearer has previously stated that Everton must be prepared to back Moyes in the winter transfer market, it remains imperative that the squad is strengthened before the window closes on 3 February.
Although Moyes is only one match into his second stint at Goodison Park, a win against Aston Villa would have significantly alleviated the growing fears amid a fierce relegation battle.
Goodison News learned the reported interest in Lyon forward Ernest Nuamah is non-existent, but several names are swirling around the rumour mill this month.
Unfortunately, Moyes will not be able to rectify all the problems on Merseyside in one transfer window – with finances still restricted, he must prioritise where to strengthen.
And all Evertonians would agree that a new forward must be acquired – the Toffees are the second-lowest goalscorers in the division only bettering bottom-of-the-table Southampton.
Iliman Ndiaye, despite his evident impact at the Blues, has only three Premier League goals thus far, whereas loan duo Jesper Lindstrom and Jack Harrison fail to boast a single-goal contribution between them.
The lack of quality in the final third is damning and, unless addressed this month, will ultimately become Moyes’ downfall at Everton.
In other Everton news, the Toffees are set for a £3.25m windfall after recent transfer developments.
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